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pequeño means small — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: August 28, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

pequeño

adjective • /[peh-KEH-nyoh]/

small

Example:

Prefiero una mochila pequeña.

I prefer a small backpack.

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🧠 What does pequeño mean?

Pequeño is a common Spanish adjective that means "small" in English. It describes something that is not large in size, amount, or degree. You'll use this word frequently when talking about everyday objects, quantities, and even abstract concepts.

📚 Extra examples

  • Tengo un gato pequeño.
    I have a small cat.
  • Ella pidió una porción pequeña de pastel.
    She ordered a small slice of cake.
  • Vive en un pueblo pequeño.
    He/She lives in a small town.
  • El problema es pequeño.
    The problem is small.
  • Un pequeño grupo de amigos.
    A small group of friends.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'small' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'small' in Spanish is 'pequeño'.
How do you pronounce 'pequeño' in Spanish?
It's pronounced peh-KEH-nyo. The 'ñ' sound is like the 'ny' in 'canyon'.
How do you use 'pequeño' in a sentence?
You can use 'pequeño' just like the English word 'small': 'El libro es pequeño' (The book is small).
What is the English translation of 'pequeño'?
'Pequeño' translates to 'small' in English.
Does 'pequeño' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'pequeño' changes to agree with the noun it describes. For a feminine noun, use 'pequeña'. For plural nouns, use 'pequeños' (masculine) or 'pequeñas' (feminine).
Is 'pequeño' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'pequeño' is a very common word in everyday conversations.
Does 'pequeño' have slang or double meanings?
While generally straightforward, in some contexts 'pequeño' can be used affectionately, like calling a child 'mi pequeño' (my little one).
Is 'pequeño' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
Not really. The meaning and usage are generally consistent across Spanish-speaking regions.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "pequeño"

Synonyms: chico, diminuto, reducido
Opposites: grande, enorme, gigante

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'pequeño' comes from the Latin word 'piccolus,' which also means 'small.'

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